What does prediabetic mean?

A:

Quick Answer

Prediabetic refers to a person who has high blood sugar levels without being high enough to classify as type 2 diabetes, according to WebMD. A blood sugar level between 100 and 125 on a fasting plasma glucose test generally indicates prediabetes.

Keep Learning

Even though the person does not technically have diabetes, the same damage caused by the disease may start during prediabetes, notes Mayo Clinic. If left untreated, prediabetes is likely to develop into type 2 diabetes within 10 years. Patients diagnosed with prediabetes can avoid type 2 diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels through healthy lifestyle changes. These changes include losing weight, staying physically active and incorporating healthy foods into the diet.